Greek Easter Bread - Tsoureki

Ingredients

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mahleb 1/2 teaspoon ground mahleb
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mastiha 1/4 teaspoon ground mastiha
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
• 6 dyed eggs (optional, for decoration) 6 dyed eggs (optional, for decoration)
• Sliced almonds (optional, for topping) Sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 18g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, yeast, mahleb, mastiha, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope.
7. 7.
   Place the ropes side by side and pinch them together at one end. Begin braiding the ropes, crossing the outer ropes over the center rope until you reach the end. Pinch the ends together and tuck them under.
8. 8.
   Transfer the braided dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using dyed eggs, gently tuck them into the braids.
9. 9.
   Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
10. 10.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
11. 11.
    If desired, brush the braided dough with an egg wash and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
12. 12.
    Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• Mahleb — This spice is derived from ground cherry pits and adds a unique flavor to Tsoureki. It can be found in specialty Middle Eastern or Greek stores.
• Mastiha — Mastiha is a resin obtained from the mastic tree and has a distinct aromatic taste. It can be purchased in the form of powder or small crystals.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts to the dough before kneading.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.
• To achieve a shiny crust, brush the baked Tsoureki with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water while it's still warm.
• Leftover Tsoureki can be enjoyed toasted and spread with butter or used to make delicious French toast.
• If you don't have mahleb or mastiha, you can omit them from the recipe, but they do contribute to the unique flavor profile of Tsoureki.

Serving advice

Tsoureki is best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm. Slice it and serve it as a delightful centerpiece for your Easter brunch or afternoon tea. It pairs perfectly with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal of Tsoureki, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. Arrange the braided bread on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh flowers or mint leaves for an elegant touch.